Fused opaque and clear glass for camera or display window

ABSTRACT

Apparatus, systems and methods for windows integration with cover glass and for processing cover glass to provide windows for electronic devices are disclosed. Transparent windows such as a transparent camera window, a transparent illuminator window and/or a transparent display window can be integrated into the cover glass. The apparatus, systems and methods are especially suitable for cover glasses, or displays (e.g., LCD displays), assembled in small form factor electronic devices such as handheld electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, media players, personal digital assistants, remote controls, etc.). The apparatus, systems and methods can also be used for cover glasses or displays for other relatively larger form factor electronic devices (e.g., portable computers, tablet computers, displays, monitors, televisions, etc.).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/347,430, filed Jan. 10, 2012, and entitled “INTEGRATEDCAMERA WINDOW”, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to processing glass. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to processing cover glassused in portable electronic devices.

Glass surfaces have become increasingly popular for use in consumerelectronic products, such as handheld electronic devices. Since suchdevices often include displays, glass surfaces can be used as protectiveouter surfaces for such displays. Although plastic may be used insteadof glass, glass tends to provide a better protective barrier given itsstrength and scratch resistance.

Further, rapid improvements in size and cost of digital cameratechnology have lead to integration of one or more digital cameras intovarious portable electronic devices. While such integration providesconvenience in having camera functionality available, often quality ofimages or video captured by such integrated cameras suffers. Moreover,although images or video of dark scenes could benefit from a flash orother illumination, for various reasons including integrationdifficulties, flash or other illumination are often omitted fromportable electronic devices.

Thus, in electronic devices there is a continuing need for improvedapproaches for camera integration with glass cover arrangements.

SUMMARY

Apparatus, systems and methods for windows integration with cover glassand for processing cover glass to provide windows for electronic devicesare disclosed. Transparent windows such as a transparent camera window,a transparent illuminator window and/or a transparent display window canbe integrated into the cover glass. The apparatus, systems and methodsare especially suitable for cover glasses, or displays (e.g., LCDdisplays), assembled in small form factor electronic devices such ashandheld electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, media players,personal digital assistants, remote controls, etc.). The apparatus,systems and methods can also be used for cover glasses or displays forother relatively larger form factor electronic devices (e.g., portablecomputers, tablet computers, displays, monitors, televisions, etc.).

The invention can be implemented in numerous ways, including as amethod, system, device or apparatus. Several embodiments of theinvention are discussed below.

As a method for assembling an electronic product, one embodimentincludes at least the acts of: providing a cover glass having at least aportion that is dark or opaque, forming a first aperture in the dark oropaque portion of the cover glass, and disposing a transparent camerawindow in the first aperture of the dark or opaque portion of the coverglass. Additionally, if desired, the method can further include the actof subsequently attaching the cover glass to a housing for theelectronic product.

As another method for assembling an electronic product, one embodimentincludes at least the acts of: providing a ceramic cover having at leasta portion that is dark or opaque, forming a first aperture in the darkor opaque portion of the ceramic cover, and disposing a transparentcamera window in the first aperture of the dark or opaque portion ofceramic cover. Additionally, if desired, the method can further includethe act of subsequently attaching the cover glass to a housing for theelectronic product.

As a consumer electronic product, one embodiment can include at least atransparent camera window, a cover formed of glass or ceramic, the coverbeing integrated with the transparent camera window, wherein the glassor ceramic cover has a substantially smooth exterior surface even acrossthe transparent camera window, a housing coupled with the glass orceramic cover, and electrical components disposed at least partiallyinternal to the housing, the electrical components including at least acamera.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent fromthe following detailed description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, theprinciples of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be readily understood by the following detaileddescription in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein likereference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which:

FIGS. 1A-1D show views of one or more embodiments of a consumerelectronic product.

FIGS. 2A-4B show embodiments for processing glass material of coverglass or ceramic material of a ceramic cover.

FIGS. 5A-5C are simplified cross sectional views illustratingembodiments for processing glass material of cover glass or ceramicmaterial of ceramic cover.

FIG. 5D is a simplified cross sectional view of a consumer electronicproduct.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a detailed partial cross sectional view ofchemical strengthening of exposed surface portions of a cover.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are simplified cross sectional views illustratingembodiments for chemical strengthening of a cover glass or ceramiccover.

FIG. 7C is a simplified cross sectional view of another embodiment of aconsumer electronic product.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an assembly process according toone embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating an assembly process according toanother embodiment.

It should be noted that FIGS. 1-9 are not necessarily drawn to scale.Instead, these figures are enlarged so that features are more readilyvisible.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Apparatus, systems and methods for windows integration with cover glassand for processing cover glass to provide windows for electronic devicesare disclosed. Transparent windows such as a transparent camera window,a transparent illuminator window and/or a transparent display window canbe integrated into the cover glass. The apparatus, systems and methodsare especially suitable for cover glasses, or displays (e.g., LCDdisplays), assembled in small form factor electronic devices such ashandheld electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, media players,personal digital assistants, remote controls, etc.). The apparatus,systems and methods can also be used for cover glasses or displays forother relatively larger form factor electronic devices (e.g., portablecomputers, tablet computers, displays, monitors, televisions, etc.).

Since handheld electronic devices and portable electronic devices aremobile, they are potentially subjected to various different impactevents and stresses that stationary devices are not subjected to. Assuch, the invention is well suited for implementation of displays forhandheld electronic device or a portable electronic device that aredesigned to be thin.

Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to FIGS.1A-9. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that thedetailed description given herein with respect to these figures is forexplanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limitedembodiments.

FIGS. 1A-1D show views of one or more embodiments of a consumerelectronic product. Electronic device 100 may, for example, be embodiedas a portable or handheld electronic device having a thin form factor(or low profile). The electronic device 100 can, for example, correspondto a media player, a media storage device, a Portable Digital Assistant(PDA), a tablet PCs, a computer, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a GPSunit, a remote control, and the like.

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of electronic device 100 according toone embodiment. FIG. 1B shows a detailed perspective view of a cornerportion of the electronic device 100. The electronic device 100 mayinclude a housing 102 that serves as part of an outer surface for theelectronic device 100. Electrical components (not shown in FIGS. 1A and1B) may be disposed within the housing 102. The electrical componentsmay include, but are not limited to, a controller (or processor),memory, battery, display, camera, and illuminator such as a flash.

Additionally, glass or ceramic may be used in covering front and/or backsurfaces of the electronic device 100. For example, the electronicdevice 100 may have at least one cover glass 104 or may have at leastone ceramic cover 104. Accordingly, in some embodiments cover glass 104may comprise glass material, while in other embodiments ceramic cover104 may comprise ceramic material and may be used in place of coverglass 104.

The cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may serve as an externalsurface, i.e., front or back surface, for the electronic device 100. Thecover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may also resist scratching andtherefore may provide a substantially scratch-resistance surface for thefront or back surface of the housing 102 for the electronic device 100.The cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may be coupled to the housing102, for example, using an adhesive and/or mechanical means.

The cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may be provided over a cameraarea. The cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may comprise atransparent camera window 106 at or adjacent the camera area. In oneexample, the camera area may comprise at least a camera such as adigital camera for capturing images or video. At or adjacent the cameraarea, the transparent camera window 106 of the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104) may be substantially transparent to the camera, forcapturing images or video through the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104).

The camera area may extend within the housing 102 of the electronicdevice 100. A first minority region of cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104) adjacent to the camera may extend over the camera area. The firstminority region of cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) adjacent tothe camera may comprise the transparent camera window 106. The coverglass 104 (or ceramic cover 104), and more particularly the transparentcamera window 106 can substantially overlap the camera. In oneembodiment, a peripheral region of the cover glass 104 or ceramic cover104 (more particularly the transparent camera window 106) may beadjacent to the camera and may extend over the camera area.

Similarly, the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may be providedover an illuminator area. The cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) maycomprise a transparent illuminator window 108 at or adjacent theilluminator area. In one example, the illuminator area may comprise atleast an illuminator such as a light emitting diode (LED) or electronicflash tube for illuminating dark scenes. At or adjacent the illuminatorarea, the transparent illuminator window 108 of the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104) may be substantially transparent to the illuminator.The transparent illuminator window 108 may be arranged so thatillumination from the illuminator may project outwardly through thetransparent illuminator window and outwardly from the cover glass 104(or ceramic cover 104).

The illuminator area may extend within the housing 102 of the electronicdevice 100. A second minority region of cover glass 104 (or ceramiccover 104) adjacent to the illuminator may extend over the illuminatorarea. The second minority region of cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104) adjacent to the illuminator may comprise the transparentilluminator window 108. The cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104), andmore particularly the transparent illuminator window 108 cansubstantially overlap the illuminator. In one embodiment, anotherperipheral region of the cover glass 104 or ceramic cover 104 (moreparticularly the transparent illuminator window 108) may be adjacent tothe illuminator and may extend over the illuminator area.

Additionally, in some embodiments the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104) may be provided over a display area. A transparent display window114 of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may be arrangedadjacent to the display area so that a display of the display area canbe viewed through the transparent display window 114 of the cover glass104 (or ceramic cover 104). In some embodiments, the display area may bedisposed within the housing 102 of the electronic device 100. In someembodiments, the electronic device 100 may include a full view orsubstantially full view display area that consumes a majority of thefront surface of the electronic device 100. The display area may beembodied in a variety of ways. In one example, the display area maycover at least the display, such as a flat panel display and moreparticularly an LCD display.

The display area may alternatively or additionally include a touchsensing device positioned over a display screen. For example, thedisplay area may include one or more glass layers having capacitivesensing points distributed thereon. Each of these components may beseparate layers or they may be integrated into one or more stacks. Inone embodiment, the transparent display window 114 of the cover glass104 (or ceramic cover 104) may act as the outer most layer of thedisplay area.

In some embodiments, the electronic device 100 may include a displayregion (e.g., the display area) that includes various layers. Thevarious layers may include at least the display, and may additionallyinclude a sensing arrangement disposed over the display. In some cases,the layers may be stacked and adjacent one another, and may even belaminated thereby forming a single unit. In other cases, at least someof the layers are spatially separated and not directly adjacent.

For example, the sensing arrangement may be disposed above the displaysuch that there is a gap therebetween. By way of example, the displaymay include a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) that includes a LiquidCrystal Module (LCM). The LCM generally includes at least an upper glasssheet and a lower glass sheet that at least partially sandwich a liquidcrystal layer therebetween. The sensing arrangement may be a touchsensing arrangement such as those used to create a touch screen.

For example, a capacitive sensing touch screen may include substantiallytransparent sensing points or nodes dispersed about the transparentdisplay window 114 of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104). Thetransparent display window 114 of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104) may serve as an outer protective barrier for the display region.Typically, transparent display window 114 of the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104) may be adjacent to the display region. However, thetransparent display window 114 of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104) may also be integrated with the display region, such as anotherlayer (outer protective layer) for the display region.

The cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may extend across the entiretop surface of the housing 102. In such a case, the edges of the coverglass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) may be aligned, or substantiallyaligned, with the sides of the housing 102.

Given that the thickness of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104)may be rather thin (i.e., typically less than a few millimeters), thecover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) if not carefully arranged can besusceptible to cracking or breaking if a significant force is imposedthereon, such as by a drop event where the electronic device 100 isaccidentally dropped.

In embodiments that employ cover glass 104, the glass material for thecover glass 104 may be selected from available glass that is stronger.For example, alumino silicate glass (e.g., DVTS from Corning) is onesuitable choice for the glass material for the cover glass 104. Otherexamples of glass materials include, but are not limited to, soda lime,borosilicate, and the like. In other embodiments that employ ceramiccover 104 in place of cover glass 104, the ceramic material for theceramic cover 104 may be selected from available ceramics that arestronger. For example, zirconia ceramics may be suitable choices for theceramic material for the ceramic cover 104. Other examples of ceramicmaterials include, but are not limited to, alumina ceramics, and thelike.

Transparent camera window 106 and/or transparent illuminator window 108and/or transparent display window 114 can be integrated into the coverglass 104 (or ceramic cover 104). Transparent camera window 106 and/ortransparent illuminator window and/or transparent display window 114 maycomprise glass. However, in some embodiments, transparent camera window106 and/or transparent illuminator window 108 and/or transparent displaywindow 114 may comprise plastic.

The edges of the cover glass pieces (or in some embodiments, ceramiccover pieces) can be configured to correspond to a particularpredetermined geometry. By machining the edges of the cover glass 104(or ceramic cover 104) to correspond to the particular predeterminedgeometry, the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) can become strongerand thus less susceptible to damage.

Moreover, as will be discussed in greater detail subsequently herein,the cover glass 104 can be selectively chemically treated for furtherstrengthening. One suitable chemical treatment is to selectively exposeone or more surface portions of the cover glass in a chemical bathcontaining potassium (e.g., KNO3) for a period of time (e.g., severalhours) at an elevated temperature. The selective chemical treatment candesirably result in higher compression stresses at the selectivelyexposed surface portions of the cover glass. The higher compressionstresses may be the result of ion exchange wherein K+ ions effectivelyreplacing some Na+ ions at or near the selectively exposed surfaceportions of the cover glass 104.

Similarly, some ceramics can be chemically strengthened. In embodimentsusing ceramic cover 104 in place of cover glass 104, if ceramic materialof ceramic cover 104 can be chemically strengthened, then ceramic cover104 may be chemically strengthened.

Furthermore, it should be understood that reducing veiling glare mayimprove quality of images or video captured by a camera throughtransparent camera window 106. The cover glass 104 can comprisetransparent camera window 106 and the glass region proximate thereto isdark or opaque. The camera can be arranged adjacent to the transparentcamera window 106. The glass region of the cover glass 104 proximate tothe transparent camera window 106 can be sufficiently dark or opaque forsubstantially reducing veiling glare at the camera via the cover glass104.

Similarly, in embodiments using ceramic cover 104 in place of coverglass 104, the ceramic cover 104 can comprise transparent camera window106 and the ceramic region proximate thereto is dark or opaque. As justdiscussed, the camera can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camerawindow 106. The ceramic region of the ceramic cover 104 proximate to thetransparent camera window 106 can be sufficiently dark or opaque forsubstantially reducing veiling glare at the camera via the ceramic cover104.

Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaqueceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) may substantially reduceveiling glare, substantially inhibiting such diffuse stray light fromreaching the image plane of the camera. Veiling glare might otherwisereduce contrast and resolution of images or video captured by thecamera.

Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaqueceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) may be sufficiently dark oropaque for providing substantial optical isolation of the transparentcamera window 106 from the transparent illuminator window 108.Similarly, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (or darkor opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) may be sufficientlydark or opaque for providing substantial optical isolation of thetransparent camera window 106 from the transparent display window 114.The foregoing optical isolation may substantially reduce veiling glarefrom the illuminator and/or display at the camera.

For example, as illumination from the illuminator projects outwardlythrough the transparent illuminator window 108, some stray light raysfrom the illuminator may be substantially attenuated as they encounterdark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaqueceramic material of the ceramic cover 104). Dark or opaque glassmaterial of the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material ofthe ceramic cover 104) may be sufficiently dark or opaque forsubstantially attenuating stray light rays from the illuminator, whichin turn may provide substantial optical isolation of the transparentcamera window 106 from the transparent illuminator window 108. Theforegoing may substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator atthe camera.

Accordingly, it should be understood that dark or opaque glass materialof the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of theceramic cover 104) may be disposed within the cover glass 104 (or withinthe ceramic cover 104) between the camera associated with transparentcamera window 106 and the illuminator associated with transparentilluminator window 108. The dark or opaque glass material of the coverglass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104)may serve to substantially reduce light from the illuminator fromcoupling into the camera by way of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104). More specifically, dark or opaque glass material of the coverglass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104)may serve to substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminatorfrom coupling into the camera by way of the cover glass 104 (or ceramiccover 104).

As another example, as light from the display projects outwardly throughthe transparent display window 114, some stray light rays from thedisplay may be substantially attenuated as they encounter dark or opaqueglass material of the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramicmaterial of the ceramic cover 104). Dark or opaque glass material of thecover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover104) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially attenuatingstray light rays from the display, which in turn may provide substantialoptical isolation of the transparent camera window 106 from thetransparent display window 114. The foregoing may substantially reduceveiling glare from the display at the camera. In other words, theadjacent glass or ceramic region 111 of the cover glass 104 (or ceramiccover 104) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducingveiling glare at the camera via the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104.)

Accordingly, it should be understood that dark or opaque glass materialof the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of theceramic cover 104) may be disposed within the cover glass 104 (or withinthe ceramic cover 104) between the camera associated with transparentcamera window 106 and the display associated with transparent displaywindow 114. The dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (ordark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) may serve tosubstantially reduce light from the display from coupling into thecamera by way of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104). Morespecifically, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (ordark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) may serve tosubstantially reduce the display's veiling glare from coupling into thecamera by way of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104).

As shown by shading in the figures (and as particularly shown by shadingin detailed view in FIG. 1B), the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104)can have a substantially smooth exterior surface comprising thetransparent camera window 106. The transparent camera window 106 mayhave a perimeter that is substantially encircled by a first bondinginterface 110A for substantially securing the perimeter of thetransparent camera window 106 to the cover glass 104 (or to the ceramiccover 104). The exterior surface of the cover glass 104 (or ceramiccover 104) can be lapped to be planar over the transparent camera window106, the first bonding interface 110A and the adjacent region 111 of thecover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104).

As discussed in greater detail subsequently herein, the first bondinginterface 110A may comprise a fusion bond of glass material of theperimeter of the transparent camera window 106 to substantially similaror substantially different glass material of the cover glass 104. Inembodiments where the ceramic cover 104 is used in place of the coverglass 104, the first bonding interface 110A may comprise a fusion bondof glass material of the perimeter of the transparent camera window 106to ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104.

The camera can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window 106and within the first bonding interface 110A. The first bonding interface110A can be interposed within the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104)between the camera and an adjacent region 111 of the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104). More particularly, the first bonding interface 110Acan be interposed within the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104)between the transparent camera window 106 and an adjacent region 111 ofthe cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104).

Similarly, the transparent illuminator window 108 may have a perimeterthat is substantially encircled by a second bonding interface 1108 forsubstantially securing the perimeter of the transparent illuminatorwindow 108 to the cover glass 104 (or to the ceramic cover 104). Theexterior surface of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) can belapped to be planar over the transparent illuminator window 108, thesecond bonding interface 1108 and the adjacent region 111 of the coverglass 104 (or ceramic cover 104). As discussed in greater detailsubsequently herein, the second bonding interface 1108 may comprise afusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of the transparentilluminator window 108 to substantially similar or substantiallydifferent glass material of the cover glass 104. In embodiments wherethe ceramic cover 104 is used in place of the cover glass 104, thesecond bonding interface 1108 may comprise a fusion bond of glassmaterial of the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window 108 toceramic material of the ceramic cover 104.

The illuminator can be arranged adjacent to the transparent illuminatorwindow 108 and within the second bonding interface 1108. The secondbonding interface 1108 can be interposed within the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104) between the illuminator and an adjacent region 111 ofthe cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104). More particularly, thesecond bonding interface 1108 can be interposed within the cover glass104 (or ceramic cover 104) between the transparent illuminator window108 and an adjacent region 111 of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104).

Similarly, the transparent display window 114 may have a perimeter thatis substantially encircled by a third bonding interface 110C forsubstantially securing the perimeter of the transparent display window114 to the cover glass 104 (or to the ceramic cover 104). The exteriorsurface of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) can be lapped tobe planar over the transparent display window 114, the third bondinginterface 110C and the adjacent region 111 of the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104). As discussed in greater detail subsequently herein,the third bonding interface 110C may comprise a fusion bond of glassmaterial of the perimeter of the transparent display window 114 tosubstantially similar or substantially different glass material of thecover glass 104. In embodiments where the ceramic cover 104 is used inplace of the cover glass 104, the third bonding interface 110C maycomprise a fusion bond of glass material of the perimeter of thetransparent display window 114 to ceramic material of the ceramic cover104.

The display can be arranged adjacent to the transparent display window114 and within the third bonding interface 110C. The third bondinginterface 110C can be interposed within the cover glass 104 (or ceramiccover 104) between the display and adjacent region 111 of the coverglass 104 (or ceramic cover 104). More particularly, the third bondinginterface 110C can be interposed within the cover glass 104 (or ceramiccover 104) between the transparent display window 114 and adjacentregion 111 of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104).

First bonding interface 110A and second bonding interface 1108 and thirdboding interface 110C may be thin, and may be difficult to see with theunaided eye. For ease of illustration in the figures, visual depictionsof first bonding interface 110A and second bonding interface 1108 andthird boding interfaced 110C are show as greatly exaggerated.

As shown in simplified cross sectional view in FIG. 1C, the electronicdevice 100 may include housing 102 (shown greatly simplified in FIG.10). Electrical components 103 may be disposed within housing 102. Asmentioned previously herein the electrical components may include, butare not limited to, a controller (or processor), memory, battery,display, camera, and illuminator such as a flash. The cover glass 104(or ceramic cover 104) may be coupled to the housing 102, for example,using adhesive 105. For ease of illustration, in cross sectional viewsrelative thickness of cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) is shown asgreatly exaggerated. As shown in cross sectional view in FIG. 1C, thecover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) can have a substantially smoothexterior surface comprising the transparent camera window 106,substantially encircled by first bonding interface, and transparentilluminator window 108, substantially encircled by second bondinginterface. The first bonding interface can be interposed within thecover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104) between the transparent camerawindow 106 and adjacent region 111 of the cover glass.

In FIG. 1D, a portion of the electronic device 100 is shown simplifiedin cross sectional view, so as to illustrate operation of dark or opaqueglass material of the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramicmaterial of the ceramic cover 104) in reducing veiling glare at camera107 of the electronics of device 100. Dark or opaque glass material ofthe cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramiccover 104) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for providing substantialoptical isolation of the transparent camera window 106 from thetransparent illuminator window 108. This optical isolation maysubstantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator at the camera.In FIG. 1D, notional dashed line arrows are used to depict light rays.

Illumination from the illuminator 109 is shown in FIG. 1D as projectingoutwardly through the transparent illuminator window 108. Thisillumination L1 is depicted in FIG. 1D by notional dashed line arrow L1.As illumination L1 from the illuminator 109 projects outwardly throughthe transparent illuminator window 108, some stray light rays L2 fromthe illuminator (as depicted by notional dashed line arrow L2) may besubstantially attenuated as they encounter dark or opaque glass materialof the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of theceramic cover 104). That is, dark or opaque glass material of the coverglass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104)may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially attenuating straylight rays L2 from the illuminator (as depicted by notional dashed linearrow L2). This in turn may provide substantial optical isolation of thetransparent camera window 106 from the transparent illuminator window108. The foregoing may substantially reduce veiling glare from theilluminator 109 at the camera 107. Accordingly, dark or opaque glassmaterial of the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material ofthe ceramic cover 104) is shown in FIG. 1D as substantially blocking thenotional dashed line arrow L2, so as to depict such substantialreduction in veiling glare from illuminator 109.

Accordingly, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (ordark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) may bedisposed within the cover glass 104 (or within the ceramic cover 104)between the camera 107 associated with transparent camera window 106 andthe illuminator 109 associated with transparent illuminator window 108.The dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (or dark oropaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) may serve tosubstantially reduce stray light rays L2 from the illuminator fromcoupling into the camera by way of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104). More specifically, dark or opaque glass material of the coverglass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104)may serve to substantially reduce veiling glare from the illuminator 109from coupling into the camera 107 by way of the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104).

In other words, in FIG. 1D the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover 104)can comprise transparent camera window 106 and an adjacent glass orceramic region 111 that may be dark or opaque. The camera 107 can bearranged adjacent to the transparent camera window 106 so that thecamera 107 to receive intended light rays L3 through transparent camerawindow 106. By receiving intended light rays L3 through transparentcamera window 106, the camera 107 may capture images or video.

The adjacent glass or ceramic region 111 of the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104) can be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantiallyreducing veiling glare at the camera 107 via the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104.) Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104(or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) maysubstantially reduce veiling glare, substantially inhibiting suchdiffuse stray light from reaching the image plane of the camera. Suchveiling glare might otherwise reduce contrast and resolution of imagesor video captured by the camera 107.

The illuminator 109 has already been discussed in detail as one possiblesource of veiling glare, which may arise from within the electronicdevice 100. As already discussed, some stray light rays L2 from theilluminator (as depicted by notional dashed line arrow L2) may besubstantially attenuated as they encounter dark or opaque glass materialof the cover glass 104 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of theceramic cover 104). However, the display of the electronic device 100may be another possible source of veiling glare, which may arise fromwithin the electronic device 100. As already discussed, the adjacentglass or ceramic region 111 of the cover glass 104 (or ceramic cover104) may be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially attenuatingstray light rays from the display, which in turn may provide substantialoptical isolation of the transparent camera window 106 from the displayvia the transparent display window 114, and may provide substantialreduction in veiling glare at the camera 107 via the cover glass 104 (orceramic cover 104.)

Further, there may also be other possible sources of veiling glare,which may arise from outside the electronic device 100. Additional straylight rays L4 are shown in FIG. 1D as arising from outside theelectronic device (and are depicted in FIG. 1D by notional dashed linearrow L4). Such additional stray light rays L4 arising from outside theelectronic device may be substantially attenuated and/or reduced as theyencounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 104 (or darkor opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104). Accordingly, darkor opaque glass material of at least a portion of the cover glass 104(or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) is shownin FIG. 1D as substantially blocking the notional dashed line arrow L4,so as to depict such substantial reduction in veiling glare arising fromoutside electronic device 100.

FIGS. 2A-4B show embodiments for processing glass material of coverglass or ceramic material of ceramic cover.

FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of cover glass 204, which may besingulated from sheet glass. In embodiments that process ceramic cover204 in place of cover glass 204, the ceramic cover 204 may be singulatedfrom ceramic sheet. FIG. 2B shows a detailed view of the peripheralregion of cover glass 204 or ceramic cover 204.

FIG. 3A shows a perspective view of processed cover glass 304 (orprocessed ceramic cover 304) after first, second and third apertures312A, 312B, 312C have been formed in the cover glass 304 (or in ceramiccover 304.) The apertures 312A, 312B, 312C may be formed in variousways, for example by drilling, cutting, milling or other machiningmethods. FIG. 3B shows a detailed view of the peripheral region ofprocessed cover glass 304 (or processed ceramic cover 304) with firstand second apertures 312A, 312B.

FIG. 4A shows a perspective view, and FIG. 4B shows a detailed view, ofa further processed cover glass 404 (or further processed ceramic cover404). As shown, transparent camera window 406 has been disposed in firstaperture 412A, which may extend through the cover glass 404 (or throughceramic cover 404). Transparent illuminator window 408 has been disposedin second aperture 412B, which likewise may extend through the coverglass 404 (or through ceramic cover 404). Transparent display window 414has also been disposed in third aperture 412C, which likewise may extendthrough the cover glass 404 (or through ceramic cover 404).

The transparent camera window 406, transparent illuminator window 408and transparent display window 414 can be formed as suitably sized glassplugs, pegs or pieces, and may be hot pressed in place at a suitabletemperature, for example approximately six hundred (600) toapproximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius (° C.). Such heat maybe applied for securing the transparent camera window 406, thetransparent illuminator window 408 and the transparent display window414 to the cover glass 404 (or to the ceramic cover 404).

As shown by shading in the figures (and as particularly shown by shadingin detailed view in FIG. 4B), the cover glass 404 (or ceramic cover 104)can have a substantially smooth exterior surface comprising thetransparent camera window 406. The transparent camera window 406 mayhave a perimeter that is substantially encircled by first bondinginterface 410A for substantially securing the perimeter of thetransparent camera window 406 to the cover glass 404 (or to the ceramiccover 404). The exterior surface of the cover glass 404 (or ceramiccover 404) and/or the transparent camera window 406 can be lapped to beplanar over the transparent camera window 406, the first bondinginterface 410A and the adjacent region 411 of the cover glass 404 (orceramic cover 404).

The first bonding interface 410A may comprise a fusion bond of glassmaterial of the perimeter of the transparent camera window 406 tosubstantially similar or substantially different glass material of thecover glass 404. Such fusion bond 410A may be formed by the heatingdiscussed previously herein for securing the transparent camera window406 to the cover glass 404.

In embodiments where the ceramic cover 404 is used in place of the coverglass 404, the first bonding interface 410A may comprise a fusion bondof glass material of the perimeter of the transparent camera window 406to ceramic material of the ceramic cover 404. Such fusion bond 410A maybe formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securing thetransparent camera window 406 to the ceramic cover 404.

Similarly, the transparent illuminator window 408 may have a perimeterthat is substantially encircled by a second bonding interface 410B forsubstantially securing the perimeter of the transparent illuminatorwindow 408 to the cover glass 404 (or to the ceramic cover 404). Theexterior surface of the cover glass 404 (or ceramic cover 404) and/orthe transparent illuminator window 408 can be lapped to be planar overthe transparent illuminator window 408, the second bonding interface410B and the adjacent region 411 of the cover glass 404 (or ceramiccover 404).

The second bonding interface 410B may comprise a fusion bond of glassmaterial of the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window 408 tosubstantially similar or substantially different glass material of thecover glass 404. Such fusion bond 4108 may be formed by the heatingdiscussed previously herein for securing the transparent illuminatorwindow 408 to the cover glass 404.

In embodiments where the ceramic cover 404 is used in place of the coverglass 404, the second bonding interface 410B may comprise a fusion bondof glass material of the perimeter of the transparent illuminator window408 to ceramic material of the ceramic cover 404. Such fusion bond 4108may be formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securingthe transparent illuminator window 408 to the ceramic cover 404.

Similarly, the transparent display window 414 may have a perimeter thatis substantially encircled by a third bonding interface 410C forsubstantially securing the perimeter of the transparent display window414 to the cover glass 404 (or to the ceramic cover 404). The exteriorsurface of the cover glass 404 (or ceramic cover 404) and/or thetransparent display window 414 can be lapped to be planar over thetransparent display window 414, the third bonding interface 410C and theadjacent region 411 of the cover glass 404 (or ceramic cover 404).

The third bonding interface 410C may comprise a fusion bond of glassmaterial of the perimeter of the transparent display window 414 tosubstantially similar or substantially different glass material of thecover glass 404. Such fusion bond 410C may be formed by the heatingdiscussed previously herein for securing the transparent display window414 to the cover glass 404.

In embodiments where the ceramic cover 404 is used in place of the coverglass 404, the third bonding interface 410C may comprise a fusion bondof glass material of the perimeter of the transparent display window 414to ceramic material of the ceramic cover 404. Such fusion bond 410C maybe formed by the heating discussed previously herein for securing thetransparent display window 414 to the ceramic cover 404.

FIGS. 5A-5C are simplified cross sectional views illustratingembodiments for processing glass material of cover glass 504, or ceramicmaterial of ceramic cover 504. FIG. 5A shows a cross sectional view ofcover glass 504 (or processed ceramic cover 504) after first and secondapertures 512A, 512B have been formed in the cover glass 504 (or inceramic cover 504.) A third aperture for receiving the transparentdisplay window is not shown in FIGS. 5A-5C. As mentioned previously,apertures may be formed in various ways, for example by drilling,cutting, milling or other machining techniques. In the embodiment shownin FIG. 5A, the glass material of the cover glass 504 (or the ceramicmaterial of the ceramic cover 504) can be dark or opaque, asrepresentatively illustrated by right to left hatching.

FIG. 5B shows a cross sectional view of the dark or opaque cover glass504 (or ceramic cover 504) after an elongated/thickened transparentcamera window 506A and elongated/thickened transparent illuminatorwindow 508A have been disposed within first and second apertures 512A,512B extending through the dark or opaque cover glass 504 (or ceramiccover 504). Similarly, an elongated/thickened transparent display windowmay be disposed in within a third aperture (not shown in FIG. 5B).

The transparent camera window 506 and transparent illuminator window 508and transparent display window can be formed as a suitably sized glassplugs or pegs or pieces, and may be hot pressed in place at a suitabletemperature, for example approximately six hundred (600) toapproximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius (° C.). Such heat maybe applied for securing any of the transparent camera window 506, thetransparent illuminator window 508 and the transparent display window tothe cover glass 504 (or to the ceramic cover 504.)

In other words, the elongated/thickened transparent camera window 506Aand the elongated/thickened transparent illuminator window 508A and theelongated/thickened transparent display window can be formed aselongated/thickened glass plugs, pegs or pieces, and can be hot pressedin place at a suitable temperature, for example approximately sixhundred (600) to approximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius (°C.). As will be discussed next, the elongated/thickened transparentcamera window 506A, the elongated/thickened transparent illuminator 508Aand the elongated/thickened transparent display window can be lappeddown, using a suitable abrasive slurry (e.g., comprising cesium oxide),so that the exterior surface of the dark opaque cover glass 504 (orceramic cover 504) can be planar.

For example, as shown in cross sectional view in FIG. 5C, the dark oropaque cover glass 504 (or ceramic cover 504) can have a substantiallysmooth exterior surface comprising the transparent camera window 506Band the transparent illuminator window 508B. The transparent displaywindow is not shown in FIG. 5C. The resulting exterior surface of thedark or opaque cover glass 504 (or ceramic cover 504) can be planar overthe transparent camera window 506B, the transparent illuminator 508B,and the transparent display window as well as over adjacent region 511of the dark or opaque cover glass 504 (or ceramic cover 504).

FIG. 5D is a simplified cross sectional view of a consumer electronicproduct 500. The consumer electronic product 500 can comprise a housingand electrical components disposed at least partially internal to thehousing. The electrical components can include at least a camera 507 andilluminator 509.

The consumer electronic product 500 can include the cover glass 504 (orceramic cover 504) coupled to a housing. The cover glass 504 (or ceramiccover 504) can include the transparent camera window 506B, thetransparent illuminator window 508B and adjacent region 511 (glass orceramic) that is dark or opaque. The transparent display window is notshown in FIG. 5D. The camera 507 can be arranged adjacent to thetransparent camera window 506B. The illuminator 509 can be arrangedadjacent to the transparent illuminator window. The adjacent region 511can be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducing glare atthe camera 507 via the cover glass 504 (or ceramic cover.)

The cover glass 504 (or ceramic cover 504) can have a substantiallysmooth exterior surface extending over the transparent camera window506B, the transparent illuminator window 508B, the transparent displaywindow and the adjacent region 511. The cover glass 504 (or ceramiccover 504) can have an exterior surface that is lapped to be planar overthe transparent camera window 506B, the transparent illuminator window508B, the transparent display window and the adjacent region 511.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a detailed partial cross sectional view ofchemical strengthening of exposed surface portions of a cover, such ascover glass 604. FIG. 6 diagrammatically illustrates a chemicaltreatment process of submerging the cover glass 604 in a heatedpotassium bath 616 (for example a molten KNO3 bath), for chemicallystrengthening the cover glass 604. When the cover glass 604 is submergedor soaked in the heated potassium bath 616, diffusion and ion exchangecan occur at exposed surface portions of the cover glass 604.

As shown in FIG. 6, Na⁺ ions 615 which are present in cover glass 604can diffuse into potassium bath 616, while K⁺ ions 617 in potassium bath616 can diffuse into cover glass 604 such that a compressive surfacelayer 619 can be formed. In other words, K⁺ ions 617 from potassium bath616 can be exchanged with Na⁺ ions 615 to form compressive surface layer619. The K⁺ ions 617 can provide a compressive stress surface stress(CS) of the compressive surface layer 619, which chemically strengthensthe compressive surface layer 619 of the cover glass 604. Compressivesurface layer 619 is highlighted using cross hatching.

Cover glass 604 is shown in FIG. 6 as having a thickness (t). Bycontrolling chemical treatment parameters such as the length of time ofchemical strengthening treatment and/or the concentration of K⁺ ions 617in potassium bath 616, a depth (d) of compressive surface layer 619 andcompressive stress surface stress (CS) of the compressive surface layer619 may be substantially controlled. In some cases, K⁺ ions 617 may notdiffuse into a center portion 621 of the cover glass 604. In FIG. 6, thecenter portion 621 is shown without cross hatching. The central portion621 of the cover glass 604 can have a central tension (CT) in responseto the compressive stress surface stress (CS) of the compressive surfacelayer 619.

Such chemical strengthening can strengthen glass material of thetransparent camera window, the transparent illuminator window and thetransparent display window, as well as adjacent regions of the coverglass. Further, some ceramics can be chemically strengthened. Inembodiments using the ceramic cover in place of the cover glass, ifceramic material of ceramic cover can be chemically strengthened, thenthe ceramic cover may be chemically strengthened. In such case, chemicalstrengthening can strengthen adjacent regions of the ceramic cover.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are simplified cross sectional views illustratingembodiments for chemical strengthening of a cover glass 704 (or ceramiccover 704). FIG. 7A shows the cover glass 704 (or ceramic cover 704)prior to any chemical strengthening. FIG. 7B shows the cover glass 704(or ceramic cover 704) after chemical strengthening.

As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the cover glass 704 (or ceramic cover 704)can have a substantially smooth exterior surface comprising transparentcamera window 706 and transparent illuminator window 708. Transparentdisplay window is not shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. The exterior surface ofthe cover glass 704 (or ceramic cover 704) can be lapped, for exampleprior to chemical strengthening, to be planar over the transparentcamera window 706, the transparent illuminator window 708, thetransparent display window and an adjacent region 711 of the cover glass704 (or ceramic cover 704).

After chemical strengthening, FIG. 7B shows a chemically strengthenedsurface 719A of the glass material of the transparent camera window 706.FIG. 7B also shows a chemically strengthened surface 719B of the glassmaterial of the transparent illuminator window 708. A chemicallystrengthened surface of the transparent display window is not shown inFIG. 7B. However, FIG. 7B also shows a chemically strengthened surface719C of the adjacent region 711 of the cover glass 704. In embodimentswhere ceramic cover 704 is used in place of the cover glass 704, andwhere the ceramic cover 704 may be chemically strengthened, suchchemical strengthening can strengthen adjacent regions 711 of theceramic cover 704. In the figures, chemical strengthening of surfaces isrepresentatively illustrated using cross hatching.

FIG. 7C is a simplified cross sectional view of another embodiment of aconsumer electronic product 700 comprising a housing and electricalcomponents disposed at least partially internal to the housing, whereinthe electrical components include at least a camera 707 and illuminator709. The cover glass 704 (or ceramic cover 704) can be coupled to thehousing.

The cover glass 704 (or ceramic cover 704) can comprise the transparentcamera window 706 having the chemically strengthened surface, thetransparent illuminator window 708 having the chemically strengthenedsurface, and the transparent display window having the chemicallystrengthened surface. The cover glass 704 (or ceramic cover 704) cancomprise the adjacent region 711 having chemically strengthened surface.The camera 707 can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window706. The illuminator 709 can be arranged adjacent to the transparentilluminator window 709. Although not shown in FIG. 7C, the display canbe arranged adjacent to the transparent display window.

Illumination from the illuminator 709 is shown in FIG. 7C as projectingoutwardly through the transparent illuminator window 108 and itschemically strengthened surface. This illumination L1 is depicted inFIG. 7C by notional dashed line arrow L1. As illumination L1 from theilluminator 709 projects outwardly through the transparent illuminatorwindow 708, some stray light rays L2 from the illuminator (as depictedby notional dashed line arrow L2) may be substantially attenuated asthey encounter dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 704 (ordark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 704). Accordingly,dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 704 (or dark or opaqueceramic material of the ceramic cover 104) is shown in FIG. 7C assubstantially blocking the notional dashed line arrow L2, so as todepict substantial reduction in veiling glare from illuminator 709.

The camera 707 can be arranged adjacent to the transparent camera window706, and the camera 707 can receive intended light rays L3 throughtransparent camera window 706 and its chemically strengthened surface.By receiving intended light rays L3 through transparent camera window706, the camera 707 may capture images or video through the cover glass704 (or ceramic cover 704).

The adjacent region 711 of the cover glass 704 (or ceramic cover 704)can be sufficiently dark or opaque for substantially reducing veilingglare at the camera 707 via the cover glass 704 (or ceramic cover 704).Dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 704 (or dark or opaqueceramic material of the ceramic cover 704) may substantially reduceveiling glare, substantially inhibiting such diffuse stray light fromreaching the image plane of the camera. Such veiling glare mightotherwise reduce contrast and resolution of images or video captured bythe camera 707.

The illuminator 709 has already been discussed in detail as one possiblesource of veiling glare, which may arise from within the electronicdevice 700. However, there may be other possible sources of veilingglare, which may arise from outside the electronic device 700.Additional stray light rays L4 are shown in FIG. 7C as arising fromoutside the electronic device (and are depicted in FIG. 7C by notionaldashed line arrow L4). Such additional stray light rays L4 arising fromoutside the electronic device may be substantially attenuated and/orreduced as they encounter dark or opaque glass material of the coverglass 704 (or dark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 704).Accordingly, dark or opaque glass material of the cover glass 704 (ordark or opaque ceramic material of the ceramic cover 704) is shown inFIG. 7C as substantially blocking the notional dashed line arrow L4, soas to depict such substantial reduction in veiling glare arising fromoutside electronic device 700.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an assembly process 800 accordingto one embodiment. The assembly process 800 may begin by forming 802 oneor more apertures in a cover glass. For example, a first aperture may beformed for receiving a transparent camera window, a second aperture maybe formed for receiving a transparent illuminator window, and a thirdaperture may be formed for receiving a transparent display window. Theapertures may be formed in various ways, for example by drilling,cutting, milling or other machining.

The process 800 may continue by disposing 804 windows in the coverglass. For example, the transparent camera window may be disposed in thefirst aperture, which may extend through the cover glass. Thetransparent illuminator window may be disposed in the second aperture,which likewise may extend through the cover glass. The transparentdisplay window may be disposed in the third aperture, which likewise mayextend through the cover glass.

The process 800 may continue by securing 806 one or more windows, suchas securing the transparent camera window in the first aperture of thecover glass, securing the transparent illuminator window in the secondaperture of the cover glass, and securing the transparent display windowin the third aperture of the cover class. For a tight fit, the windowscan be heated (i.e., to become compliant) and pressed into place withinthe apertures.

In securing 806 the windows, such windows may be sufficiently heated sothat the glass material of the windows may be substantially compliantand may be pressed into place in the apertures. In securing the windows806, the windows may be sufficiently heated for fusion bonding glassmaterial of the windows to glass material of the cover glass. Suchheating at a suitable temperature may be used, for example approximatelysix hundred (600) to approximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius(° C.).

For example, a first bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusionbond of glass material of a perimeter of the transparent camera windowto substantially similar or substantially different glass material ofthe cover glass. A second bonding interface may be formed comprising afusion bond of glass material of a perimeter of the transparentilluminator window to substantially similar or substantially differentglass material of the cover glass. A third bonding interface may beformed comprising a fusion bond of glass material of a perimeter of thetransparent display window to substantially similar or substantiallydifferent glass material of the cover glass.

The process 800 may continue with lapping 808 the transparent camerawindow and transparent illuminator window and transparent display windowsuch that the transparent camera window and the transparent illuminatorwindow and the transparent display window and an adjacent glass regionof the cover glass yield a planar exterior surface of the cover glass.

The process 800 may continue with strengthening 810 the cover glass. Forexample, chemical strengthening may strengthen glass material of thetransparent camera window and of the transparent illuminator window andof the transparent display window, as well as adjacent glass regions ofthe cover glass.

The process 800 may continue with disposing 812 windows adjacent tocomponents or an electronic product. For example, the transparent camerawindow may be disposed adjacent to a camera of the electronic product.The transparent illuminator window may be disposed adjacent to anilluminator of the electronic product. The transparent display windowmay be disposed adjacent to a display of the electronic product. Theprocess 800 may continue with subsequently attaching 812 the cover glassto a housing for the electronic product. Once the cover glass has beenattached to the housing, the assembly process 800 can end.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating an assembly process 900 accordingto another embodiment. The assembly process 900 may begin by forming 902one or more apertures in a ceramic cover. For example, a first aperturemay be formed for receiving a transparent camera window, a secondaperture may be formed for receiving a transparent illuminator windowand a third aperture may be formed for receiving a transparent displaywindow. The apertures may be formed in various ways, for example bydrilling, cutting, milling or other machining.

The process 900 may continue by disposing 904 windows in the ceramiccover. For example, the transparent camera window may be disposed in thefirst aperture, which may extend through the ceramic cover. Thetransparent illuminator window may be disposed in the second aperture,which may likewise extend through the ceramic cover. The transparentdisplay window may be disposed in the third aperture, which may likewiseextend through the ceramic cover.

The process 900 may continue by securing 906 one or more windows, suchas securing the transparent camera window in the first aperture of theceramic cover, securing the transparent illuminator window in the secondaperture of the ceramic cover and securing the transparent displaywindow in the third aperture of the ceramic cover. For a tight fit, thewindows can be heated (i.e., to become compliant) and pressed into placewithin the apertures.

In securing 906 the windows, the windows may be sufficiently heated sothat the glass material of the windows may be substantially compliantand may be pressed into place in the apertures. In securing the windows906, the windows may be sufficiently heated for fusion bonding glassmaterial of the windows to ceramic material of the ceramic cover. Suchheating at a suitable temperature may be used, for example approximatelysix hundred (600) to approximately seven hundred (700) degrees Celsius(° C.).

For example, a first bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusionbond of glass material of a perimeter of the transparent camera windowto ceramic material of the ceramic cover. A second bonding interface maybe formed comprising a fusion bond of glass material of a perimeter ofthe transparent illuminator window to ceramic material of the ceramiccover. A second bonding interface may be formed comprising a fusion bondof glass mater of a perimeter of the transparent display window toceramic material of the ceramic cover.

The process 900 may continue with lapping 908 the transparent camerawindow, the transparent illuminator window and the transparent displaywindow such that the transparent camera window, the transparentilluminator window, the transparent display window and an adjacentceramic region of the ceramic cover yield a planar exterior surface ofthe ceramic cover.

The process 900 may continue with strengthening 910. For example,chemical strengthening may strengthen glass material of the transparentcamera window and of the transparent illuminator window and of thetransparent display window. Some ceramic materials may be chemicallystrengthened. Where ceramic material of the ceramic cover may bechemically strengthened, such chemical strengthening can strengthenadjacent ceramic regions of the ceramic cover.

The process 900 may continue with disposing 912 windows adjacent tocomponents or an electronic product. For example, the transparent camerawindow may be disposed adjacent to a camera of the electronic product.The transparent illuminator window may be disposed adjacent to anilluminator of the electronic product. The transparent display windowmay be disposed adjacent to a display of the electronic product. Theprocess 900 may continue with subsequently attaching 912 the ceramiccover to a housing for the electronic product. Once the ceramic coverhas been attached to the housing, the assembly process 900 can end.

Embodiments of the invention are well suited for portable,battery-powered electronic devices, and more particularly handheldbattery-powered electronic devices. Examples of portable,battery-powered electronic devices can include laptops, tabletcomputers, media players, phones, GPS units, remote controls, personaldigital assistant (PDAs), and the like.

The various aspects, features, embodiments or implementations of theinvention described above can be used alone or in various combinations.

The advantages of the invention are numerous. Different aspects,embodiments or implementations may (but need not) yield one or more ofthe following advantages. One advantage of the invention is that coverglass (or ceramic cover) can be strengthened, even at a camera windowregion and/or illuminator window region, to protect from damage thatwould otherwise result from a drop event. Another advantage isefficiency and/or pleasing appearance in integrating a transparentcamera window and transparent illuminator window into the cover glass orceramic cover. Another advantage is improved image or video quality,which may result from substantially reducing veiling glare.

The many features and advantages of the invention are apparent from thewritten description and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims tocover all such features and advantages of the invention. Further, sincenumerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilledin the art, the invention should not be limited to the exactconstruction and operation as illustrated and described. Hence, allsuitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to as fallingwithin the scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for assembling an electronic productcomprising: providing a cover glass having at least a portion that isdark or opaque; forming a first aperture in the dark or opaque portionof the cover glass; disposing a transparent camera window in the firstaperture of the dark or opaque portion of the cover glass; andsubsequently attaching the cover glass to a housing for the electronicproduct.
 2. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein the portion of thecover glass is sufficiently dark or opaque to substantially attenuatetransmission of veiling glare via the cover glass to the transparentcamera window.
 3. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein the methodfurther comprises: securing a perimeter of the transparent camera windowto the dark or opaque portion of the cover glass.
 4. A method as recitedin claim 3 wherein the securing the perimeter of the transparent camerawindow to the dark or opaque portion of the cover glass comprisesheating the transparent camera window.
 5. A method as recited in claim 3wherein the securing the perimeter of the transparent camera window tothe dark or opaque portion of the cover glass comprises pressing thetransparent camera window.
 6. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein themethod further comprises: fusion bonding a perimeter of the transparentcamera window to the dark or opaque portion of the cover glass.
 7. Amethod as recited in claim 1 wherein the method further comprises:fusing glass of a perimeter of the transparent camera window with glassof the dark or opaque portion of the cover glass.
 8. A method as recitedin claim 1 wherein the method further comprises: lapping the transparentcamera window and an adjacent glass region of the dark or opaque portionof the cover glass into a planar exterior surface of the cover glass. 9.A method as recited in claim 1 wherein the method further comprises:forming a second aperture in the dark or opaque portion of the coverglass; disposing a transparent illuminator window in the second apertureof the dark or opaque portion of the cover glass; and fusing glass of aperimeter of the transparent illuminator window with glass of the darkor opaque portion of the cover glass.
 10. A method as recited in claim 1wherein the method further comprises: forming an other aperture in thedark or opaque portion of the cover glass; disposing a transparentdisplay window in the other aperture of the dark or opaque portion ofthe cover glass; and fusing glass of a perimeter of the transparentdisplay window with glass of the dark or opaque portion of the coverglass.
 11. A method as recited in claim 1 wherein the method furthercomprises: strengthening the transparent camera window and dark oropaque portion of the cover glass.
 12. A method for assembling anelectronic product comprising: providing a ceramic cover having at leasta portion that is dark or opaque; forming a first aperture in the darkor opaque portion of the ceramic cover; disposing a transparent camerawindow in the first aperture of the dark or opaque portion of theceramic cover; and subsequently attaching the ceramic cover to a housingfor the electronic product.
 13. A method as recited in claim 12 whereinthe portion of the ceramic cover is sufficiently dark or opaque tosubstantially attenuate transmission of veiling glare via the ceramiccover to the transparent camera window.
 14. A method as recited in claim12 wherein the method further comprises: securing a perimeter of thetransparent camera window to the dark or opaque portion of the ceramiccover.
 15. A method as recited in claim 14 wherein the securing theperimeter of the transparent camera window to the dark or opaque portionof the ceramic cover comprises heating the transparent camera window.16. A method as recited in claim 14 wherein the securing the perimeterof the transparent camera window to the dark or opaque portion of theceramic cover comprises pressing the transparent camera window.
 17. Amethod as recited in claim 12 wherein the method further comprises:fusion bonding a perimeter of the transparent camera window to the darkor opaque portion of the ceramic cover.
 18. A method as recited in claim12 wherein the method further comprises: fusing glass of a perimeter ofthe transparent camera window with ceramic of the dark or opaque portionof the ceramic cover.
 19. A method as recited in claim 12 wherein themethod further comprises: lapping the transparent camera window and anadjacent ceramic region of the dark or opaque portion of the ceramiccover into a planar exterior surface of the ceramic cover.
 20. A methodas recited in claim 12 wherein the method further comprises: forming asecond aperture in the dark or opaque portion of the ceramic cover;disposing a transparent illuminator window in the second aperture of thedark or opaque portion of the ceramic cover; and fusing glass of aperimeter of the transparent illuminator window with ceramic of the darkor opaque portion of the ceramic cover. 21-29. (canceled)